The youngster scored his first goal for the Rossoneri after coming on for Robinho in the 3-0 win over Reggina in the Coppa Italia on Thursday night, and took the time to dedicate the strike to the fans as a reward for their support.

When asked whether he shares the same approach to the game as Balotelli, Niang stated that he would rather play like two-time Ballon d'Or winner Ronaldo, while at the same time admitting he should develop his own style.

"Me like Balotelli? Better Ronaldo - the Brazilian. I was in love with football in the years in which he was at Inter," the younsgter is quoted as saying by La Gazzetta dello Sport.

"He is the ideal forward in terms of technique, power and speed. It is better not to make comparisons, I am who I am. I am M'Baye Niang.

"I first want to thank the fans, the goal is dedicated to them. They encouraged me even before I stepped onto the pitch.

"My team-mates have always been close to me, especially [Stephan] El Shaarawy who is like a brother to me.

"On Saturday president [Silvio] Berlusconi took me aside and said to me: 'We believe in you, you will see that you will play in the Coppa Italia'. Well, it happened and I am glad I managed to repay that faith."

AC Milan's next league game sees them host Pescara at San Siro on Sunday afternoon.